Ford's Marcus Gronholm leads Rally Turkey after a challenging first day's rallying. Crews battled heavy rain and extremely muddy conditions on the remaining six stages, after event organisers were forced to cancel three stages.
In the absence of Sebastien Loeb, Gronholm was expected to dominate the opening day, however Subaru's Petter Solberg has returned to form and he and Gronholm each won three of the day's stages. Gronholm holds a 26.1second lead going into Leg 2.
Colin McRae, returning to the WRC this weekend to replace the injured Loeb, has proven he has still got what it takes to challenge for the lead, and he currently sits in sixth place after an equal second fastest on the day's final stage, the Super Special in Antalya.
Tyre selection proved critical later in the day as the stages dried out, and many crews were disadvantaged after making wrong tyre selections.
Results Rally Turkey Leg One:
1. M. Gronholm, Ford
2. P. Solberg, Subaru.
3. Hirvonen, Ford.
4. H. Solberg, Peugeot.
5. Katajamaki, Ford.
6. McRae, Citroen.
7. Atkinson, Subaru.
8. Pons, Citroen.
Â
Â
SUBSCRIBE BELOW TO READ THE FULL STORY
RallySport Magazine Subscription
Select Subscription Level
Select Subscription Length
Recurring Subscription Cost
A subscription to RallySport Magazine give you access to all our rally
content from Australia, New Zealand and around the world – with news,
features and experiences nobody can match.
Our team are dedicated to providing an unrivalled experience which
shares, supports and promotes the sport of rallying.
By clicking "Subscribe Now" you agree to receive news, offers and updates on RallySport Magazine.
If you do not wish to receive marketing communications, you can update your preferences in My Account.
We will commence charging your payment method after the 7 day free trial expires.
If you cancel after expiry of your trial, cancellation will take effect from the end of your current monthly subscription period.
You will not be refunded any fees paid to RallySport Magazine unless otherwise set out in the terms and conditions.
Account Created!
Welcome to RallySport Magazine VIP Membership.
Get ready for your rally news experience to completely transform.
Start browsing news, exclusive VIP content or check out your account.